The climate of the Ozarks is so variable that a person who has lived in the region only one year cannot make a true estimate of the kind of weather that might be expected during the next 12 months. A similar statement may be made concerning the seasons: the experience of one summer, or one winter, will not give a correct idea of general summer or general winter conditions. The same may be said for any month of the year.

Precipitation is largely in the form of rain. The average total rainfall per year is 40 inches. The average total snowfall per year is 15.9 inches. The rains usually fall in the spring and fall. The dry season usually sets in about the latter part of June or the first of July and lasts 40 to 60 days. Snowfalls are usually one to four inches and usually melt in a day or two.